Does Vitamin C Really Prevent Colds?

None of us likes being sick, so it's no wonder we cling to age-old advice on how to fight the sniffles. But are those cure-all myths true? Find out.

True or false? Zinc shortens the duration of colds and alleviates cold symptoms.True. Zinc seems to be effective when given within 24 hours of the onset of cold symptoms; zinc in the form of a nasal gel is particularly promising in reducing the duration and severity of cold symptoms.

True or false? Echinacea prevents colds or shortens their duration.False. Though some studies show that echinacea alleviates cold symptoms and prevents cold viruses, many studies show no benefit. If you are allergic to ragweed, use caution when taking echinacea.

True or false? You shouldn't drink anything while you have the stomach flu — it will prolong your illness.False. If you don't drink anything, you can easily become dehydrated. Ignore this advice.